When you have kids, it’s great to have an outdoor space. It means they can run around and enjoy some fresh air, while you relax or get stuff done. But the backyard can be a dangerous place, and that’s why it’s important to childproof the area. Here are some tips to make your yard safer for young kids.
Ensure pools are fenced off
One of the biggest causes of accidental deaths among young children is drowning, and it’s often due to kids jumping into pools or other bodies of water unsupervised. That’s why it’s important to stay up to date with Sydney swimming pool compliance, so you can be sure your pool is protected. Also, look out for other types of water, from ponds to hot tubs and paddling pools. A child can drown in an inch of water.
Keep dangerous objects out of reach
Surprisingly, even in the backyard, kids can find things to injure themselves with, and many parents forget to childproof their garden the way they do with their homes. Some dangerous items in the backyard include:
- Lawnmowers
- Tools
- Chemicals and pesticides
- Sharp objects
These should be locked away in a shed or garage, so if the kids are roaming around, they can’t get hold of them. It’s also better to store things like garden equipment somewhere weatherproof, as they last for longer and don’t get damaged.
Take care with playground equipment
Kids love having things like swings and slides in their back garden. But having playground equipment can increase the risk of accidents in your backyard, from falls to more serious injuries. You should try and put this equipment on top of grassy areas if possible, and make sure it’s strong and secure for kids to use. Younger kids need to be supervised to ensure they aren’t doing anything dangerous.
Keep your backyard secure
Another cause of accidents can be children wandering out of backyards onto the roads. Even if you are keeping an eye on your kids, if your yard isn’t secure, they can run off in a split second. Check your fences for any holes or gaps, and make sure gates are locked. This will stop anyone coming into or leaving your backyard without you knowing about it.
While you may have spent a lot of time childproofing your home, many parents neglect to do the same to their outdoor spaces. However, your backyard can potentially be just as dangerous as your home, and when the kids play outside, a safe space gives you peace of mind. Spend some time removing dangerous objects and ensuring their playground equipment is secure, and you can relax in the knowledge that they are having fun without the risk of harm.
